How to replace a belt on a top-loading washing machine?

The operating principle of vertical washers is the same as that of front-loading washing machines. The drum of washing machines equipped with a commutator motor is spun by a drive belt. If the belt breaks or comes off, the "home helper" stops the cycle.

Let's figure out how to replace a belt on a top-loading washing machine yourself. We'll explain how to choose the right components and what points to pay attention to during the repair process.

We are replacing the specified part

You can replace your washing machine's drive belt yourself, without calling a professional. All you need is a screwdriver. The main thing is to select a drive belt suitable for a specific washing machine model. The procedure will be slightly different from repairing front-facing cameras, but overall the instructions are similar.

If your washing machine is still under warranty, it's best not to try anything yourself, but rather to have a service center specialist replace the belt.

This is because any repairs you attempt yourself will void the warranty. And if a more serious breakdown occurs in the future, you won't be able to claim free diagnostics and component replacements.

If the warranty has expired, replace the belt yourself. First, disconnect the washing machine from the power supply. Next, disconnect the machine from the water supply and sewer line and move it to the center of the room for easy access. Then:

• Unscrew the screws holding the side panel of the washing machine (this could be either the left or right panel; information on the location of the drive belt is in the equipment instructions);
• some vertical models have a side wall that is additionally secured with bolts located in the front – these also need to be removed;
• remove the side panel of the case and set it aside;
• remove the deformed belt from the pulley (usually this is not necessary, since the rubber band is torn and lies underneath);
• purchase a new drive belt, based either on the model of the washing machine or on the markings on the old belt;
• Place the new drive belt on the engine pulley;
• Pull the rubber band onto the drum pulley while slowly turning the "wheel".

The belt should be centered on the drum pulley. If it's misaligned, align the rubber band by moving it a few notches to the side on the motor pulley.

After replacing the belt, check the washing machine's operation. First, spin the drum manually. Then, without replacing the side panel, run the spin cycle and observe the washing machine. If all is well, reassemble the machine.

How to choose the right belt?

In fact, replacing the rubber band on a top-loading washing machine is quite simple. Ideally, the old band still has the markings on it—then finding a similar part will be easy.

Always look at the markings on the old drive belt - this will help you avoid making mistakes when purchasing new components.

If your washing machine has been in use for a while, there's a chance the markings on the belt have worn off. In this case, you'll need to select components based on your washing machine model. You can find the model name and serial number on the information sticker (located on the washing machine body) or in the instructions for the machine.

All manufacturers of drive rubbers for washing machines use a uniform markingThe first 4 digits indicate the belt length, the letter following it indicates its profile, and the last digit indicates the number of wedges. The most popular companies producing such components for automatic machines are Optibelt, Hutchinson, Megadyne, and Dayco.

What are the differences between vertical washing machine drive belts?

• type - they are wedge-shaped and poly-wedge;
• profile (distance between strips). In the marking, this will be indicated by the letter J or H;
• number of wedges (from 3 to 8) and ridges (from 4 to 9);
• length (this is the most important criterion when choosing a drive belt).

Therefore, if the damaged belt is marked 1965H7 Hutchinson, you can purchase a part from any other manufacturer, but it must have a similar length, profile, and number of gussets. For example, a 1965H7 Optibelt elastic would be suitable.

As an example, let's look at the markings of some belts and the washing machines that are compatible with them:

• Hutchinson belt 1204H8 PHE 481235818167 fits Whirlpool models AWA 1000 856110029203, AWA 1000 856110029200, AWA 5067 856150629277, AWA 5068 856150629286, AWA 5069 856150629296;
• The Optibelt EL 1265 J4 belt can be installed on the Indesit WG421TPR, W43T washing machine;
• drive belt 1110 J5 is designed for Indesit W43T, WD622 models;
• Drive belts of types EL 1270 J3, EL 1270 J4, EL 1270 J5 are suitable for Samsung washing machines S621, S821, S832, S852, P805J, F813J, F1015J, P1005J, 1091, 1100F, P1405J, SWF1200F, P8091, P8021, SWF 1000.

You can also try calling the service center and asking the specialists which belt is suitable for your washing machine. They're usually happy to provide verbal advice. Sometimes they even offer to order parts through them—the price isn't much different from retail, as stores offer a good discount to manufacturers.

   

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